As a kid, he traded drawings for protection in the Robert Taylor Homes. It got him a scholarship to a private boarding school—at which point his family abandoned him. His art reflects the comedians whose humor got him through. Chicago magazine profiles the painter.

By the end of the year, the agency says it will have replaced all 25,000 units that were lost after demolishing its high-rises. Residents, aldermen, and the feds say the plan is far from complete. The Sun-Times takes stock.